CyberKnife Treatment

CyberKnife Treatment in India - Why International Patients Consider It?

CyberKnife is a brand name for a device that delivers stereotactic radiosurgery. This short explains what it is and how it is used to treat certain tumours.

What is CyberKnife treatment

• A robotic system. CyberKnife is a non-invasive radiation therapy system. A robotic arm delivers high doses of radiation to tumours with a high degree of precision.
• Real-time tracking. It uses image guidance software to track the tumour's position. The system adjusts for your breathing and small movements to protect healthy tissue.
• Conditions treated. It may be used for certain cancerous and non-cancerous tumours in the brain, spine, lung, liver, pancreas, and prostate.
• Not a surgical knife. Despite the name, there are no incisions. It is a form of external beam radiation therapy, also known as radiosurgery.

The treatment process

Treatment is usually completed over one to five sessions on different days.

• Treatment planning. A radiation oncologist uses CT scans and other imaging to map the tumour's exact size, shape, and location. This is used to plan the radiation dose.
• During a session. You lie on a treatment couch while the robotic arm moves around you. The machine is quiet and the treatment is painless.
• Session length. Each session can last from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
• After treatment. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after a session. Your doctor will discuss any potential side effects with you.

Is CyberKnife a suitable option

• Tumour characteristics. Suitability often depends on the type, size, and location of the tumour. It is frequently used for small, well-defined tumours.
• Previous treatments. It can sometimes be an option for patients who have had previous radiation therapy or for tumours that are considered inoperable.
• Expert review. The decision to recommend CyberKnife is made by a team of specialists after a thorough review of your case.
• Other options. It is not appropriate for all cancers or all patients. Other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy may be recommended instead.

The suitability of any treatment, including CyberKnife, can only be determined by a specialist. This requires a detailed review of your medical history, recent reports, and imaging.